About that old bridge over Pocono Creek

I recently heard that a pedestrian bridge, spanning Pocono Creek near Stroudsburg High School, is to be built.

I recently heard that a pedestrian bridge, spanning Pocono Creek near Stroudsburg High School, is to be built.

Looking back, I recall there once was a pedestrian bridge that crossed the creek near Stroudsburg High. Can you tell me when that bridge was built?

D.J., Stroudsburg

The old swinging bridge, now long gone, was built in the 1940s and connected the Stroudsburg Area School District property with that of Stroud Ford.

Although removed years ago, in 1987, students were still using the bridge. Those who dared to cross had to step carefully — several slats were missing.

School officials eventually declared the bridge unsafe and advised the students to stop using the shortcut.

Concerned for the kids' safety, the officials sought to have the bridge torn down as soon as ownership could be established.

The new footbridge — which will also serve bicyclists — will span Pocono Creek, connecting Knights Park (in the neighborhood behind Walgreens off Route 611 in Stroud Township) to the Stroudsburg Area School District property.

The cost of building the new link will be funded by a grant with construction beginning, possibly, later this year.

In the 1980s, I was a big fan of the television series "Fame." My favorite actor in the show was Gene Anthony Ray. Whatever happened to him? Did he continue to act after the end of the show?

M.M., East Stroudsburg

Gene Anthony Ray, an actor, dancer and choreographer, portrayed Leroy Johnson in both the 1980 film "Fame" and its television spin-off of the same name, airing 1982-1987.

According to imdb.com, in 1982, Ray, along with other cast members, joined forces for a concert tour in the United Kingdom. A year later, "The Kids From Fame," a television special about the tour, was broadcast in the United States.

Ray also appeared in the films "Out of Sync" (1995) and the comedy "Eddie" (1996), according to imdb.com, as well as uncredited dancing roles.

Ray's last project was the documentary "Fame Remember My Name," taped in April 2003, just seven months before his death at age 41. He had suffered a stroke a few months prior to his death, according to imdb.com.

Years ago, you published the do-not-call website and phone number for Wisconsin residents. I would like to give the information to my grandmother, who lives in that state. Would you publish the phone number, which would be better for Grandma, and site again?

E.C., East Stroudsburg

Yes. To stop unwanted calls in Wisconsin, complete the online form, accessible from the website of Wisconsin's Agriculture, Trade Consumer Protections, at nocall.wisconsin.gov/web/registration.asp.

If your grandmother is uncomfortable using a computer, she can sign up by calling 866-966-2255.

For previous questions and answers, see poconorecord.com/consumer. Published questions are limited by space available.